How to Crochet A Checkered Pouch for Beginners
Are you looking for an easy pouch with a zipper? Learn how to crochet a checkered pouch using a 9-inch zipper, cotton yarn, and a G crochet hook for beginners. Due to the difficulty of seeing stitches with black yarn, a mini example is made with red heart acrylic yarn. The tutorial covers the process of making chain stitches, double crochets, and switching colors to create a checkered pattern.
It also includes instructions on adding a single crochet border and attaching the zipper by sewing. The finished pouch is turned inside out, ensuring the squares are aligned for a neat, handmade accessory. So, follow through with us for the complete tutorial.
Introduction
The tutorial walks viewers through the process of crocheting a checkered pouch using cotton yarn and a zipper. The presenter uses simple techniques and explains each step clearly, making it accessible for beginners. To ensure visibility, the creator provides a mini example with acrylic yarn for demonstration and highlights important details about switching colors and forming the checkered pattern.
Materials Required
The materials used for the tutorial include:
- Cotton yarn: Used for the primary pouch with alternating colors for the checkered design.
- Crochet hook (G size): For crafting the stitches.
- Red Heart acrylic yarn: Used for the mini example due to better visibility.
- 9-inch zipper: For securing the pouch closure.
- Scissors and tapestry needle: For weaving in ends and cutting yarn.
- Optional sewing machine: Used initially for attaching the zipper but replaced by hand sewing in the final steps.
Steps to Crochet the Checkered Pattern
1. Create the Foundation
- Start with a series of chain stitches as the base for the pouch. Ensure the chain is a multiple of four to create the checkered pattern and fit the zipper appropriately.
2. Begin the Double Crochet Rows
- Using double crochet stitches, build the first row of the checkered design.
- Introduce the alternating color of yarn by switching before completing the fourth double crochet.
3. Repeat the Pattern
- Switch back and forth between colors to continue creating the checkered design, ensuring clean transitions between colors.
- Tug the strands as needed to prevent the second color from showing through the back.
4. Form the Squares
- Each square is made up of two rows of alternating colors. Continue repeating the pattern, row by row, to form the pouch’s texture.
Adding the Border
1. Single Crochet Edge
- Crochet a single row of single crochet stitches along the edge of the pouch.
- Turn the piece and repeat on the opposite side, inserting the crochet hook between double crochet stitches for a clean edge.
2. Secure the Ends
- Use a tapestry needle to weave in loose ends and cut off any excess yarn.
Attaching the Zipper
1. Sewing the Zipper
- The presenter initially uses a sewing machine to attach the zipper but later opts for hand sewing after evaluating the results.
- Hand sew the zipper along the edges of the pouch for better control and alignment.
2. Assemble the Pouch
- Turn the piece inside out and count two double crochet stitches from the side to create a seam.
- Sew the sides together and ensure the corners align perfectly for a professional finish.
Final Steps
After sewing the edges, turn the pouch right-side out to showcase the checkered pattern. The tutorial concludes with the finished pouch, demonstrating how clean and structured it appears when assembled correctly. It can be used as both a functional accessory and a storage item.
